Extra officers for the International Sunderland Airshow

Sophie Brownson

Northumbria Police will have extra officers on patrol for the International Sunderland Airshow this weekend to help target underage drinking.

As part of Operation Harpoon, additional officers will be on patrol on the seafront in Seaburn and Roker to make sure the area is not being used by underage youngsters drinking alcohol and getting involved in anti-social behaviour.

These will join the usual team of officers on patrol in and around the airshow grounds as well as across the wider city.

Launched last week Operation Harpoon sees Sunderland North Neighbourhood Policing Team carry out dedicated patrols on and around the seafront and, to help reduce anti-social behaviour caused by underage drinking during the airshow weekend police will using alcohol testing strips.

Supt Pitt added: "The airshow is a fantastic event for the region and we're really looking forward to again being a part of it, what we don't want is to have it blighted by the over excitement of a few individuals who let their behaviour get out of control."

Motorists are travelling to the airshow are remdinded of roadworks on the A1231 and are advised to follow signs to parking areas. Sat navs may direct motorists along this route and motorists are advised to switch off sat navs and follow signs provided.